prevention and health promotion division compendium 2020

Prevention and Health Promotion Division Compendium 2020

PREVENTION AND HEALTH PROMOTION DIVISION COMPENDIUM 2020

1/23/2020 Prevention and Health Promotion Division


PREVENTION AND HEALTH PROMOTION DIVISION STAFF

Carol P. Meredith, Director 860-418-6826

Statewide and Community Based Prevention Initiatives

Andrea Iger Duarte 860-418-6801

Program Manager

Dawn Grodzki 860-418-6772

Program Manager

Robin Cox 860-418-6955

Prevention Services Coordinator

Stephanie L. Moran 860-418-6880


State Tobacco Prevention and Enforcement Program

Gregory F. Carver 860-418-6702

Supervising Special Investigator

Michael Harnois 860-418-6871

Special Investigator

FDA Tobacco Prevention and Enforcement Program

Holly White 860 418-6837


Bryan Champagne 860-418-6781

Lead Special Investigator

Albert Harrison 860-418-6821


Daniela Montes -Hawley 860-418-6757


Mario Bernardo 860-418-6888



TABLE OF CONTENT

Prevention and Health Promotion Division 4

What is Prevention & Health Promotion?

Prevention Framework

Comprehensive Prevention & Health Promotion System

Management and Organization 7

Structure and Organization

Sub-State Organization

State Advisory Councils

Strategic Action Plan

Infrastructure and Programs 10

Introduction to Infrastructure & Programs

Statewide Resource Links and the Regional Action Councils

Connecticut Strategic Prevention Framework Coalitions Initiative

Local Prevention Councils

Connecticut Networks of Care for Suicide Prevention

State Tobacco Prevention & Enforcement Program

Food and Drug Administration Tobacco Prevention & Enforcement Program

CT Safe Schools Healthy Students (SSHS) Diffusion Project

Partnerships for Success 2015

Now is the Time – Healthy Transitions – CT STRONG

Statewide Healthy Campus Initiative

Specialized CIT for Young Adults

Courage to Speak Foundation

Needs Assessment, Planning, Resource Allocation, Data Collection 25

Needs Assessment

Resource Allocation

Data Collection

Interagency Coordination 31

Introduction to Interagency Coordination

Interagency Boards, Committees, Coalitions,

Collaboratives, Partnerships and Workgroups

Quality Assurance, Monitoring, Workforce Development 39

System Oversight and Program Reporting

Monitoring, Corrective Action and Technical Assistance

Staff Credentialing and Operating Standards

Workforce Development

Connecticut Intermediate Outcomes

Research-Based Best Practice Strategies, Practices and Programs


Prevention and Health Promotion Division

PREVENTION & HEALTH PROMOTION DIVISION WHAT IS PREVENTION & HEALTH PROMOTION?

PREVENTION FRAMEWORK

COMPREHENSIVE PREVENTION & HEALTH PROMOTION SYSTEM

WHAT IS PREVENTION & HEALTH PROMOTION?

Prevention means creating conditions that promote good health. It is achieved by reducing those

factors that are known to cause illness and problem behaviors and encouraging those factors that

buffer individuals and promote good health. Prevention promises a reduction in the incidence of new

cases of illness and problem behavior. When properly done, a good preventive intervention is long

lasting and focused on reducing vulnerability and enhancing wellness.

The Institute of Medicine’s Continuum of Care

A classification system that presents the scope of behavioral health services: promotion of

health, prevention of illness/disorder, treatment, and maintenance/recovery.i

Prevention and promotion are the first two steps in the substance abuse and mental health continuum

of care and promotion is encouraged across the spectrum. Interaction with the prevention system often

serves as a catalyst for individuals to seek intervention and treatment services. Prevention

practitioners are trained to identify and refer individuals with problems to appropriate intervention

and treatment services.

Prevention can help decrease hospital stays, long-term residential treatment, suicide, violence and

aggression. It provides for long-term cost savings and can create better quality of life for individuals

and safe and resilient communities.

In the field of mental health, promotion includes efforts to enhance individuals’ ability to achieve

developmentally appropriate tasks (developmental competence) and a positive sense of self-esteem,

mastery, well-being, and social inclusion and to strengthen their ability to cope with adversity.



PREVENTION FRAMEWORK

Prevention programs fall into three categories based on the Institute of Medicine’s (IOM) Spectrum of

Behavioral Health Disorders: universal, selected and indicated. Universal prevention programs focused

the general public or a whole population that has no known risk factors. Selective prevention

interventions are focused on individuals or a segment of the population whose risk for developing

substance abuse or a mental health disorder is significantly higher than average. Indicated prevention

programs focus on high-risk individuals who have started exhibiting problems. There is an array of

best practice universal, selective and indicated prevention interventions directed at individuals and

families in their schools, neighborhoods, places of worship and workplaces which have proliferated

across the country in the last twenty years. These interventions have evolved from several generations

of programs, theoretical models and approaches that address individuals across the lifespan. Over

the years, these approaches have been researched across focused populations and fields of practice,

with consideration given to developmental appropriateness, gender and sexual orientation factors.

This has resulted in new knowledge and lessons learned about the impact and effectiveness of

prevention, which has assisted developers in creating extremely promissing prevention systems.

There are several state and local agencies within Connecticut with prevention systems that use a

variety of theoretical models. The Connecticut Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services

(DMHAS) is the single state agency for mental health and substance abuse services. The DMHAS’

Prevention and Health Promotion Division is strategically aligned with the Substance Abuse Mental

Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA) Strategic Prevention Framework (SPF). The Division’s work

is guided by the SPF five steps which comprise of conducting needs assessments, capacity building,

planning, implementing evidenced based strategies, monitoring and evaluation. The division is

organized to provide accountability-based, developmentally appropriate and culturally sensitive

behavioral health services based on best practices, through a comprehensive system that matches

services to the needs of the individuals and communities.

As depicted in the Connecticut Tree of Prevention below, this comprehensive system includes the

following areas aligned with the federal SAMHSA Center for Substance Abuse Prevention’s (CSAP)

concepts of performance management:

COMPREHENSIVE PREVENTION & HEALTH PROMOTION SYSTEM

DMHAS System SAMHSA/CSAP concepts

Management and Organization of DMHAS’

Prevention System Organizational /system performance outcomes are established

Resources are allocated based on established goals

Program Infrastructure including concepts,

strategies and activities, program functions, and

targets.

Cultural issues are approached systemically

Workforce development needs are assessed and capacity is increased

Outcomes, plans and strategies are monitored and evaluated

Planning, Needs Assessment, Resource

Allocation and Data Collection. Data informs adjustments in policy and strategy direction

Data informs decisions that improve public health quality

Coordination with Other Agencies. Data frames to report successful outcomes

Practices, resources and partnerships to sustain long term outcomes

Quality Assurance and Improvement. Budget decisions are based on results

Sub recipients are accountable for outcomes


Management and Organization

MANAGEMENT AND ORGANIZATION STRUCTURE AND ORGANIZATION

SUB-STATE ORGANIZATION

STATE ADVISORY COUNCILS

STRATEGIC ACTION PLAN

STRUCTURE AND ORGANIZATION

The Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS) was formed in July 1995 by a

merger of the Addiction Services Division of the Department of Public Health and Addiction Services,

and the Department of Mental Health. Alcohol, tobacco and other drug (ATOD) prevention services

are placed under the Division of Prevention and Health Promotion within the DMHAS.

Prevention services are within the Office of the Commissioner and under the management of the

Director of Prevention Services who reports to the Commissioner of DMHAS. The Prevention & Health

Promotion Division oversees and administers the prevention set-aside funds for the Substance Abuse

Prevention and Treatment (SAPT) block grant as well as the implementation of the Synar amendment.

The Table below illustrates the staff and the relationships among the various sub-units within the

Prevention Division.

CT DEPARTMENT OF MENTAL HEALTH AND ADDICTION SERVICES

PREVENTION AND HEALTH PROMOTION DIVISION ORGANIZATIONAL CHART

Summer Workers &

Chaperones/ FDA and State

Tobacco Enforcement

(24)

Carol Meredith

Director of Prevention and

Health Promotion Division

Andrea Iger Duarte

Behavioral Health

Program Manager

Robin Cox

Primary Prevention

Services Coordinator

Michael Harnois

State Special Investigator

SYNAR

Albert Harrison


Gregory Carver

State Supervising


SYNAR

Stephanie Moran

Primary Prevention

Services Coordinator

MIRIAM DELPHIN-RITTMON, Ph.D.

Commissioner

Holly White

FDA Supervising


Bryan Champagne

FDA Lead Special

Investigator

Daniela Montes-Hawley


Mario Bernardo


Dawn Grodzki

Behavioral Health

Program Manager

Vacant

MSW Intern



SUB-STATE ORGANIZATION

The Connecticut legislature has established 5 human service regions for the purpose of providing state

health and human services. DMHAS uses 13 subdivisions of these regions as the geographic basis for

prevention services. The prevention services within these regions are comprised of 6 major

components: (1) four Statewide Resource Links that support prevention programs statewide, known as

the Prevention Infrastructure; (2) Connecticut Strategic Prevention Framework Coalition Initiative

aimed at applying the 5-step Strategic Prevention Framework (SPF) to address state and local needs

in twelve communities across the state; (3) 156 Local Prevention Councils providing primary prevention

strategies; (4) Tobacco Prevention and Enforcement Initiatives aimed at reducing underage access and

use of tobacco products; (5) thirteen Regional Action Councils that build capacity of individuals and

communities to deliver prevention services; (6) the Partnerships for Success 2015 Initiative addressing

underage drinking at the state and community levels; (7) the CT Youth Suicide Prevention Initiative

comprised of seventeen high schools, four CT State Universities, a hospital, a middle school, two

training entities; a statewide awareness campaign; (8) the Safe Schools Healthy Students initiative

intended to expand and enhance improvements in school climate, access to behavioral health and

other supports, reduce substance use and exposure to violence in students Pre-K through 12th grade in

3 school districts across the state; and (9) the Now is the Time Healthy Transitions: CT STRONG

program to engage youth ages 16-25 who are at risk for behavioral disorders and connect them to

care.

STATE ADVISORY COUNCILS

The Connecticut Alcohol and Drug Policy Council (ADPC) was established by the Governor through

executive order in 1996 to address substance abuse issues within the state and to implement the

recommendations of its predecessor Blue Ribbon Task Force on Substance Abuse. The ADPC and its

Prevention, Treatment and Criminal Justice committees developed a multi-year, interagency statewide

plan for substance abuse that has been annually updated and evaluated and which provides for

policy and budgetary direction for substance abuse prevention and treatment annually.

The Connecticut Suicide Advisory Board was established January 2012 through the merger of the CT

Youth Suicide Advisory Board and the Interagency Suicide Prevention Network to create one state-

level Suicide Advisory Board to address suicide across the lifespan. The 1989 legislation requires the

existence of an advisory body to inform the Commissioner of DCF on strategies for the coordination

of youth suicide prevention throughout Connecticut. The goals are: 1) Increase public awareness of the

existence of youth suicide and means of prevention; 2) Make recommendations for statewide training

in youth suicide prevention; 3) Develop a strategic youth suicide prevention plan; 4) Recommend

interagency policies and procedures for coordination of services; 5) Implement suicide prevention

procedures in schools and communities; 6) Establish a coordinated system for data collection and

utilization; 7) Make recommendations concerning the integration of youth suicide prevention and

intervention strategies into youth prevention and intervention programs.



Connecticut Healthy Campus Initiative- This statewide initiative, funded through the CSAP Partnership

for Success 2015 is composed of 46 member universities and colleges of higher education, and is

committed to substance abuse prevention in the focused 18 to 25 year old college student population.

The Initiative provides leadership on substance abuse prevention through engagement of senior

college administrators and implementation of evidence based policies, practices and strategies.

STRATEGIC ACTION PLAN

The Prevention & Health Promotion Division has used state policy plans and recommendations, agency

strategic plans and SAMHSA goals to guide the prevention direction. The table below identifies the

Prevention Division’s role in implementing DMHAS’ current operational plan.


Infrastructure and Programs

INFRASTRUCTURE AND PROGRAMS INTRODUCTION TO INFRASTRUCTURE & PROGRAMS

STATEWIDE RESOURCE LINKS AND THE REGIONAL ACTION COUNCILS

CONNECTICUT STRATEGIC PREVENTION FRAMEWORK COALITIONS INITIATIVE

LOCAL PREVENTION COUNCILS

CONNECTICUT NETWORKS OF CARE FOR SUICIDE PREVENTION

STATE TOBACCO PREVENTION & ENFORCEMENT PROGRAM

FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION TOBACCO PREVENTION & ENFORCEMENT PROGRAM

CT SAFE SCHOOLS HEALTHY STUDENTS DIFFUSION PROJECT

PARTNERSHIPS FOR SUCCESS 2015

NOW IS THE TIME – HEALTHY TRANSITIONS – CT STRONG

STATEWIDE HEALTHY CAMPUS INITIATIVE

SPECIALIZED CIT FOR YOUNG ADULTS

COURAGE TO SPEAK FOUNDATION

INTRODUCTION TO INFRASTRUCTURE & PROGRAMS

Prevention activities within DMHAS have historically been based on the public health model.

Programs have also used the empowerment model as promulgated by the SAMHSA/CSAP, and the

creation of conditions to promote general well-being as described in the research of William Lofquist

and David Hawkins. Capacity building at the community level is an important element of the state’s

prevention activities. In recent years, DMHAS has also employed environmental strategies, especially

in the area of reducing underage drinking. Prevention services have been organized to promote local

capacity building and provider agencies are directing their efforts to achieve capacity building for

communities.

Among the state agencies with prevention resources, the mission for prevention is to build a systems

approach to strengthen local capacity and to support local empowerment in meeting the needs and

implementing prevention programs. DMHAS fosters the development of comprehensive culturally

appropriate programs based on scientifically defensible principles and focuses on both individuals

and the environments within which they live. DMHAS has taken deliberate efforts to shift the

prevention paradigm in Connecticut towards the SPF. Utilizing the SPF model at both the state and

community level DMHAS has implemented a statewide data driven needs assessment process,

spearheaded by the State Epidemiological Workgroup, across the prevention continuum of care

related to substance abuse, suicide and gambling. The paradigm shift to the SPF has resulted in

strategic planning including logic model development based on needs assessment, increased capacity

to address needs identified through data analysis and identification and implementation of evidence-

based programs, strategies and policies. Evaluation of these efforts is ongoing and will result in mid-

course corrections as needed.



DMHAS’ prevention concepts and direction are communicated to provider agencies through the

Request for Proposals process and the DMHAS prevention web-site. Prevention staffs also sponsor

learning communities and information dissemination exchanges for provider agencies.

DMHAS prevention programs are organized into five major categories: (1) Statewide Resource Links

and Regional Action Councils; (2) community and evidence based substance abuse prevention

projects; (3) community and evidence based suicide prevention and school based efforts; (4)

programs aimed at reducing access of tobacco products to underage youth; and (5) programs that

support youth and adults 5 – 25. Additionally, there are other prevention programs that are smaller

in nature and funded to address local needs.



STATEWIDE RESOURCE LINKS AND THE REGIONAL ACTION COUNCILS

Purpose:

The Statewide Resource Links (SRL) and the Regional Action Councils (RAC) are statewide and regional

entities funded by DMHAS to support prevention efforts within the state by building the capacity of

individuals and communities to deliver prevention services. Since 2006, these entities have provided

distinct services to move Connecticut’s prevention system to align with the Strategic Prevention

Framework (SPF) five steps.

Funded Programs & Services:

Connecticut Clearinghouse (SRL) – is a statewide library and resource center for information on

substance use and mental health disorders, prevention and health promotion, treatment and

recovery, wellness and other related topics.

Training and Technical Assistance Service Center (SRL) – provides training needed to obtain

and maintain certification status; provides training workshops that focus on prevention skills

development and the application of these skills, provides training on mental health promotion, and

violence and substance abuse prevention; supports to individuals looking to increase their

knowledge and skills in the prevention area.

Governor’s Prevention Partnership (SRL) – is a statewide organization comprising of

public/private partnerships designed to change the attitudes and behaviors of Connecticut youths

and adults toward substance through its School, Campus, Workplace and Media Partnerships.

Center for Prevention Evaluation and Statistics (SRL) – The CPES is responsible for designing

and implementing data collection and management; disseminating and utilizing epidemiological

data for decision-making; and providing technical assistance and training on evaluation-related

tasks and topics.

Regional Action Councils (SRL) –13 public/private sub-regional planning and action councils

that have responsibility for the planning, development and coordination of behavioral health

services in their respective region.

Focus Population(s):

Local communities, individuals, and agencies providing prevention programming; regional and

statewide service agencies; societal organizations and institutions, e.g. corporate, medical, religious

and recreational entities

Strategy Type:

The State-wide Service Delivery Agents utilizes multiple strategies to promote the health and well-

being of all Connecticut’s residents throughout their life span. They include, but are not limited to,

information & public awareness, education, community development, capacity building and

institutional change, and social policy.

Program Management Statewide Resource Links Program Management Regional Action Councils

Dawn Grodzki Andrea Iger Duarte

Program Manager Program Manager

860-418-6772 860-418-6801



CONNECTICUT STRATEGIC PREVENTION FRAMEWORK COALITIONS (CSC) INITIATIVE

Purpose:

The CSC Initiative is a 1.2 million program funded annually through the SAMHSA Substance Abuse

Prevention and Treatment Block Grant. The initiative is comprised of 12 agencies working with

coalitions that are implementing SAMHSA five-step Strategic Prevention Framework (SPF) to address

substance abuse and promote positive mental health at the community level. The CSC Initiative

objectives are to: develop strong linkages between communities and State agencies; implement and

sustain culturally competent, evidence-based prevention services; and achieve measurable outcomes

in reducing substance abuse while also promoting positive mental health.


The CSC Initiative agencies are implementing the SPF in the following 12 communities: Clinton,

Danbury, Darien, Fairfield, Groton, Haddam/Killingworth, Harwinton-Burlington, Lyme/Old Lyme,

Middletown, New Haven, Newtown, and Windsor Locks. Informed by their community coalition,

grantees will focus on populations identified through their Community Needs Assessments and

prioritization process.

Strategy Type:

Each community will use the SPF five-step public health model which includes needs assessment,

capacity building, strategic planning, implementation, and evaluation while incorporating cultural

competency and sustainability throughout the process. The grantees will use epidemiological data to

identify needs, and gaps for implementing evidence-based programs, policies, and practices within

their respective geographical areas.

Program Management

Robin Cox


860-418-6955



LOCAL PREVENTION COUNCILS

Purpose:

This initiative supports 130 plus local, municipal-based Local Prevention Councils (LPCs) that facilitate

the development of culturally competent ATOD abuse prevention and joint behavioral health

promotion initiatives of Local Prevention Councils (LPCs) within communities directed at citizens across

the lifespan with the support of chief elected officials. The overall goal is to increase public

awareness of the prevention of ATOD abuse and joint behavioral health promotion in the context of

overall health and wellness. This program differs from others in that the eligible grantees are

required to demonstrate the support and involvement of the municipality’s chief elected official, i.e.,

mayor and/or first selectman. The specific goals of Local Prevention Councils (LPCs) are to increase

public awareness of ATOD prevention and joint behavioral health promotion initiatives and stimulate

the development and implementation of local prevention activities.

Funded Programs:

130 plus Local municipalities and town councils throughout the state

Target Populations:

Universal targets in selected communities in the 169 cities and towns throughout Connecticut.

Program Strategy:

LPC programs utilize at least two of the six CSAP identified prevention strategies (information

dissemination, education, community-based processes, alternative programming, environmental, and

program identification and referral) in their community programs.

Program Management

Andrea Iger Duarte

Program Manager

860-418-6801



CONNECTICUT NETWORKS OF CARE FOR SUICIDE PREVENTION (NCSP)

Purpose:

The Connecticut Networks of Care for Suicide Prevention (NCSP) is a $3.68 million dollar, 5 year

grant from the federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), and

has a special focus on at risk youth, ages 10 to 24. The grant seeks to establish a statewide network

of care for suicide prevention, intervention and response. It will also facilitate the implementation of

intensive community-based efforts to reduce non-fatal suicide attempts and suicide deaths.

The Network of Care for Suicide Prevention embeds suicide prevention as a core priority across

Connecticut. It utilizes culturally competent interventions that have been researched and shown to be

effective at preventing suicide.

The NCSP will serve diverse youth and young adults age 10-24 and supportive adults representative

of the CT population with emphasis on young people identified at increased risk of suicide and who

have attempted suicide.

The Connecticut Departments of Mental Health and Addiction Services, Children and Families, and

Public Health, with the guidance of the CT Suicide Advisory Board co-direct the grant implementation

and activities.

Priority Populations:

Youth and young adults 10-24 years old, and communities at large and their citizens

Strategy Types:

Three primary evidence-based practices (EBP) drive the NCSP: 1) the SAMHSA’s Strategic Prevention

Framework; 2) the Jed Foundation (TJF)/Suicide Prevention Resource Center Model for

Comprehensive Suicide Prevention and Mental Health Promotion (Suicide Prevention Resource Center,

2011); and 3) the National Action Alliance for Suicide Prevention’s Zero Suicide in Health and

Behavioral Healthcare. A combination of EBPs, strategies, guidance documents and tools will be

applied to address universal, selective, and indicated populations to have the greatest impact at the

state and community levels.

Program Management

Andrea Iger Duarte

Program Manager

860-418-6801



STATE TOBACCO PREVENTION AND ENFORCEMENT PROGRAM

Synar Tobacco Compliance Initiative

Purpose:

Collaborate with communities to inform retailers and the public about laws prohibiting the sale of

tobacco products to minors, and to support prevention efforts through compliance inspections,

education and awareness.


Tobacco retail owners, managers and front line retail personnel

Strategies:

Annual Synar Tobacco Compliance Inspection Sample– Unannounced tobacco compliance

inspections conducted on a statically drawn sample of establishments to determine

Connecticut’s Retailer Violation Rate as required by the Federal Synar Amendment.

Police Partnership Inspections – Unannounced tobacco compliance inspections conducted in

concert with State and local law enforcement authorities having a Memorandum of Agreement

with DMHAS to enforce the criminal statutes of Connecticut’s tobacco youth access laws.

Eighteen Month Inspections – Unannounced compliance inspections of tobacco retailers that

have not received an inspection in the past eighteen months.

Merchant Education Inspections – Announced inspections to provide tobacco retailers with

education and awareness materials to ensure compliance with state and federal law.

The Electronic Nicotine Delivery System Compliance Inspection Program - Unannounced

electronic cigarette compliance inspections conducted with State and local law enforcement

authorities to prevent the sale of electronic cigarettes to minors.

Tobacco Merchant and Community Education Initiative (TMCEI)

Purpose:

The purpose of the merchant education campaign is to inform tobacco retailers about the provisions

of the state’s youth access laws to encourage voluntary compliance. Through the TMCEI, the Merchant

Education Program produces and distributes educational materials to approximately 4,500

establishments to help merchants and their employees comply with Connecticut’s tobacco youth access

laws. The purpose of community education activities is to increase public awareness of youth tobacco

issues.


Tobacco retail owners, managers, front line retail personnel, youth, and service providers

Strategies:

The Tobacco Merchant Education Campaign provides awareness materials for licensed

tobacco retailers throughout Connecticut. The materials inform retailers about youth access

laws, provide specific strategies for compliance with such laws, and emphasize the health

effects of tobacco use.



Tobacco Merchant & Community Education Steering Committee is a key component of a

statewide tobacco prevention community services campaign. The Steering Committee guides

and informs the campaign process resulting in the most effective campaign materials and

activities, leading to reductions in sales of tobacco products to youth under 18.

Tobacco Sales: Do the Right Thing is an interactive online training designed to build the skills

and knowledge of tobacco retail owners, managers, and front line retail personnel to prevent

retailer sales of tobacco products to youth under the age of 18. The learning components

feature real-life scenarios, state and federal tobacco laws and the associated legal

requirements.

Urban Tobacco Inspection Program

Purpose:

Historically, urban tobacco non-compliance rates are twice the statewide average and drive the

retailer violation rate reported to SAMHSA in the Annual Synar Report. A grant from the Tobacco

and Health Trust Fund provides funding directly to urban areas to do two separate but equally

important tasks: 1) conduct tobacco compliance inspections to enforce state law at the point of sale

and 2) provide retailers with education and awareness material including information about the new

online training program.


Tobacco retail owners, managers and front line retail personnel in Bridgeport, New Haven, Hartford,

and Stamford

Strategies:

Unannounced compliance inspections conducted independently by the municipal police

agencies in Bridgeport, Hartford, New Haven and Stamford

The distribution of tobacco retailer education and awareness materials

Program Management

Gregory F. Carver


860-418-6702



FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION (FDA) TOBACCO PREVENTION AND ENFORCEMENT PROGRAM

Purpose:

The Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act grants the FDA the authority to regulate

tobacco products in the US and all relevant territories. The Tobacco Control Act places specific

restrictions on the marketing and sales of tobacco products to individuals under 18 years of age.

DMHAS entered into a contract with the FDA to enforce applicable provisions of the Tobacco Control

Act and its implementing regulations in Connecticut.


Tobacco merchants throughout the State: FDA tobacco compliance initiative requires the

implementation of a statewide enforcement program with an emphasis directed toward special

populations located within urban areas.

Strategies:

Undercover Buy Inspections – Unannounced inspections conducted to monitor the sale of

tobacco products to youth under the age of 18, and that photo identification is requested

from individuals appearing younger than 27.

Advertising and Labeling Inspections – Announced inspections conducted to monitor tobacco

labels, store signage, and the sale of non-tobacco products with tobacco band names to

mention a few.

Program Management

Holly White

Program Coordinator


860 418-6837

Bryan Champagne

Backup Program Coordinator


860-418-6781



CT SAFE SCHOOLS HEALTHY STUDENTS (SSHS) DIFFUSION PROJECT

Purpose:

The Safe Schools/Healthy Students Initiative is a 8.6 million dollar four year grant that takes a

collaborative and comprehensive approach, drawing on the best practices and the latest thinking in

education, justice, social services, and mental health to help communities take action.

SSHS requires the development of statewide management team and local management teams that

serve an advisory role and share in decision making. There are three SSHS local education authorities

including Bridgeport, Middletown and the Consolidated School District of New Britain who serve as

learning laboratories for the project and though the lesson learned to develop, maintain and promote

statewide diffusion and sustainability.


Children and students birth through 12th grade

Strategies:

The guiding principles are one of three components of the SS/HS Framework that links the five

elements with the five strategic approaches to ensure a comprehensive approach to youth violence

prevention and mental health promotion. These principles include: cultural and linguistic competency,

serving vulnerable and at-risk populations, developmentally appropriate, resource leveraging,

sustainability, youth guided and family driven and evidence-based interventions.

The Strategic approach makes up the roadmap that ensures success in planning and implementation

and supports improvement in how education, child, and family-serving agencies work together at the

state and local educational agency (LEA)-community level to address youth violence prevention and

mental health promotion.

Program Management

Carol P. Meredith

Program Manager

860-418-6826



PARTNERSHIPS FOR SUCCESS 2015

Purpose:

The Partnership for Success 2015 Grant (PFS) is a five year 8.2 million dollar grant awarded through

a competitive bid to Connecticut. It will allow Connecticut to continue successful community-based

approaches that prevent underage drinking and prescription drug abuse/misuse through the use of

the Strategic Prevention Framework. This data-driven public health approach will build on existing

successes of community based coalitions that address underage drinking, including several other state

and federally funded Coalitions and community based programs currently in place covering each

region of the state.

Focus Population(s) and Goals:

Reduction of past month alcohol use rates for individuals aged of 12 - 20.

Reduction of past month prescription drug abuse/misuse rates for individuals aged 12-25

Preventing the onset and reducing the progression of childhood/underage drinking.

Strengthening capacity and infrastructure at the State and community level to implement data

driven evidenced based policies, practices and programs.

Collaborative approach aligning state and community strategies, redirection of existing

services, leveraging human and fiscal resources to sustain efforts.

Strategies:

Community coalitions throughout the state will use a public health approach to decrease alcohol

consumption and prescription drug abuse/misuse; build on existing resources to implement effective

environmental strategies such as curtailing retail and social access, policy change, enforcement, media

advocacy, and parental and merchant education; and measure change utilizing student survey and

other social indicator data.

Program Management

Dawn Grodzki

Program Director

860-418-6772

Stephanie L. Moran

Program Manager

860-418-6880



NOW IS THE TIME – HEALTHY TRANSITIONS – CT STRONG

Purpose:

The Now is the Time – Healthy Transitions, CT Seamless Transitions & Recovery Opportunities for

Network Growth (STRONG) is a 5 year, 5 million dollar grant awarded to Connecticut through a

competitive process. The program purpose is to identify and engage youth and young adults who

have or are at risk for behavioral health disorders and connect them to high quality care.

Focus Population(s)

CT STRONG will work with youth and young adults ages 16 to 25 who have or are at risk for

behavioral health disorders in the communities of Milford, New London and Middletown.

Strategies and Goals:

Utilize social marketing and public education approaches such as media campaigns to inform

people about mental illness, reduce stigma and discrimination and provide connections to

services.

Identify young people who may have behavioral health disorders and engage them into

treatment, services and supports.

Implement the key principles of the Wraparound approach; a planning process that

incorporates the preferences, strengths and natural supports of the individual to determine

how to best serve them.

Ensure that families, including natural supports beyond traditional families are engaged and

included in recovery planning.

Enhance existing transitional youth behavioral health services to create a strengths based,

family focused, gender responsive and recovery oriented system of care that takes into

consideration the culture of the youth and family.

Program Management

Dawn Grodzki

Program Manager

860-418-6772



STATEWIDE HEALTHY CAMPUS INITIATIVE

Purpose:

To develop a comprehensive prevention system that is responsive to the needs of young adults, ages

18-25 attending public universities throughout Connecticut. The Initiative is based on a 3-in-1

Framework recommended by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA). The

goal is to change the culture of drinking and other substance use/abuse using broad-based and

comprehensive, integrated programs with multiple complementary components that focus on: (1)

individuals, including at-risk or alcohol-dependent drinkers, (2) the student population as a whole, and

(3) the college and the surrounding community.


The primary focus population is college students ages 18-25. Secondarily, programs may focus on

family members, peers, schools and communities at large.

Strategies:

Address gaps in substance abuse prevention and early intervention services;

Support culturally responsive, age appropriate, and evidence-based approaches for young

adults;

Further develop Connecticut’s prevention data infrastructure and capacity to collect and

analyze outcome data and report on key performance measures.

Program Management

Dawn Grodzki

Program Director

860-418-6772

Stephanie L. Moran

Program Manager

860-418-6880



SPECIALIZED CIT FOR YOUNG ADULTS

Purpose:

The Specialized CIT for Young Adults is a $966,666 dollar, 3 year grant (9/30/13-9/29/16) from

the federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) to enhance the

capacity of its Crisis Intervention Teams (CITs) involving law enforcement and mental health mobile

crisis providers to respond to the needs of young adults aged 18-25 who are diverted from arrest to

the most appropriate treatment for their mental health, substance abuse, or co-occurring disorders. At

least 225 young adults (75 per year) are expected to be served.

This initiative builds on close relationships between criminal justice and behavioral health agencies that

followed the creation of CT’s Criminal Justice Policy Advisory Commission (CJPAC), including DMHAS,

corrections and parole, probation, the State’s Attorney, public defender, municipal and state police,

and victims’ advocates. Additional partners include the CT Alliance to Benefit Law Enforcement

(CABLE), the entity which conducts training for current Crisis Intervention Teams (CITs), the National

Alliance on Mental Illness: Connecticut (NAMI CT), Advanced Behavioral Health, and consultants from

Yale and the Institute of Living. to create a strong team with all relevant stakeholders well

represented. The project is being evaluated by the University of CT School of Social Work.


Young adults 18-29 years old

Strategy Types:

Train and provide on-going consultation to CITs to employ age-specific techniques for

engaging YAs in treatment and/or support services;

Train and provide on-going consultation to CITs to recognize Early Psychosis and to distinguish

Early Psychosis from other conditions, such as substance-induced psychosis and trauma-related

conditions;

Organize a statewide network of providers with expertise in treatment of YAs, especially

those with the ability to provide Early Psychosis treatment, or to treat co-occurring disorders

(CODs);

Provide 24/7 clinical phone consultation assistance which can be accessed by CITs whenever

there is a problem identifying appropriate providers; and

Offer young adult peer services throughout the regions of the state, including support groups

and networking through social media.

Program Management

Andrea Iger Duarte

Program Manager

860-418-6801



COURAGE TO SPEAK FOUNDATION

Purpose:

The Courage to Speak Foundation was founded in 1996 after Ginger and Larry Katz lost their son,

Ian to a drug overdose. Since then The Courage to Speak Foundation mission has been to save lives

by empowering youth to be drug free and encouraging parents to communicate effectively with their

children about the dangers of illicit drug use.


School age youth, young adults, and parents who have lost a family member to drug addiction

Strategy Types:

Positive Youth Development Prostrations encourages effective communication between children

and parents/trusted adults about the dangers of drugs and other risky behaviors.

Helping Families Heal Parent Support Group is for parents who have lost a family member to

drug addiction.

Helping Families Heal Phone Support Group is for parents who have lost a family member to

drug addiction that may be in crisis and need immediate support.

The Courage to Speak Foundation website is a comprehensive resource for parents, students,

educators, families and others interested in preventing adolescent/teen use of substance

abuse.

Program Management

Robin Cox


860-418-6955


Needs Assessment, Planning, Resource Allocation and Data Collection

NEEDS ASSESSMENT, PLANNING, RESOURCE

ALLOCATION AND DATA COLLECTION NEEDS ASSESSMENT

RESOURCE ALLOCATION

DATA COLLECTION

NEEDS ASSESSMENT

Using epidemiological and other relevant data and information, the Prevention and Health Promotion

Unit regularly explores substance use and abuse patterns unique to Connecticut’s communities and use

these data to paint a picture of the nature and burden of the problem throughout the State.

Collectively, the groups and processes described below inform funding decisions by 1) assessing the

prevalence of risk factors based on gender, race, age, socio-economic status and geographic

location; 2) analyzing trends as well as the number of individuals needing services; 3) assessing the

adequacy and appropriateness of prevention services; 4) matching prevention needs to resources;

and 5) predicting where future substance abuse problems are likely to arise.

The State Epidemiological Outcomes Workgroup

The State Epidemiological Outcomes Workgroup (SEOW) is charged with compiling indicators of

substance abuse and related consequences, tracking data trends over time, and promoting the use of

data to continually focus and strengthen ATOD prevention efforts statewide. In addition to DMHAS, it

is comprised of representatives from the Departments of Children and Families, Consumer Protection

Liquor Control Unit, Corrections, Education, Motor Vehicles, Public Health, Public Safety, Social

Services, and Transportation; the Judicial Branch Court Support Services; Multicultural Leadership

Institute; Office of Policy and Management, and researchers from the University of Connecticut Health

Center. It meets quarterly to eamine new sources of prevention and treatment need indicator data.

Regional Action Councils

DMHAS Regional Action Councils (RACs) legislative mandate is to (1) determine the extent of the

substance abuse problems within their sub-regions; (2) determine the status of resources to address

such problems; (3) identify gaps in the substance abuse service continuum; and, (4) identify changes

to the community environment that will reduce substance abuse (Connecticut Statute Sec. 17a-671).

Furthermore, the legislation requires that their membership be comprised of diverse members of the

community, including, chief elected official, the chief of police and the superintendent of schools of

each municipality within the sub-region; one representative designated by the Commissioner of

Mental Health and Addiction Services from each treatment facility operated by the department and

serving such sub-region; business and professional leaders; members of the General Assembly;

service providers; representatives of minority populations; religious organizations; representatives of

private funding organizations; and the media.



Sub-regional Prevention Priority Reports

Every two years, RACs produce Sub regional Prevention Priority Reports to describe 1) the burden of

substance abuse, problem gambling, and suicide in the subregions, 2) prioritized prevention needs,

and 3) the capacity of the sub-regions’ communities to address those needs. These reports are based

on data-driven analyses of issues in the sub-region, with assistance from key community members.

The reports and accompanying data are used as a building block for state and community-level

processes, including capacity and readiness building, strategic planning, implementation of evidence-

based programs and strategies, and evaluation of efforts to reduce substance abuse and promote

mental health.

Sub regional Priority Setting Process

The sub regional priority setting process conducted by the RACs involves the following tasks:

Compile sub regional socio demographic and indicator data using data provided by the

SEOW and additional community-level data and information, such as student survey focus

group results;

Produce eight one-page sub regional epidemiological profiles describing magnitude, impact,

and response capacity;

Convene their Community Needs Assessment Workgroups to conduct the priority ranking

process.

Community Needs Assessment Workgroups

DMHAS is committed to supporting an inclusive, comprehensive assessment process at the local, sub

regional, regional, and state levels. Accordingly, RACs convene Community Needs Assessment

Workgroups to participate in the development of the Subregional Prevention Priority Report and to

support the work of community prevention coalitions. The role of the workgroup is to 1) contribute

additional data and information; 2) assist in interpreting data and information; and 3) participate in

the priority setting process.

Each RAC Director ensures that the Community Needs Assessment Workgroup comprises diverse

community stakeholders, including youth; parents; school personnel; staff from youth-serving

organizations; researchers; local government officials; healthcare professionals, nonprofit agency

staff; and representatives from the business community, law enforcement, faith community, and

prevention coalitions. Sub-populations (i.e., those of various racial/ethnic, sexual orientation, gender,

language, disability, and culture) and members of historically underrepresented populations are also

represented.

Prevention Training Needs Assessment

The Training and Technical Assistance Service Center will conduct a Needs Assessment to develop

prevention training and technical assistance strategies to enhance Workforce Development efforts in

the State.



Other Studies/Surveys

DMHAS also utilizes results of other local, state and national studies and surveys in its program

decisions. Some of these studies and surveys are the DMHAS Ecstasy Prevention Initiative (2003),

DMHAS CT Youth Suicide Prevention Initiative (2010), CT Department of Public Health’s Connecticut

School Health Survey, American College Health Association National College Health Assessment, Penn

State Center for the Study of Collegiate Mental Health Pilot Study, University of Michigan’s

Monitoring the Future Study; SAMHSA National Survey on Drug Use and Health; Centers for Disease

Control and Prevention’s Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System Survey, core survey of alcohol

and drug use on campus and a host of other studies conducted statewide.



RESOURCE ALLOCATION

The majority of DMHAS’ prevention funding is obtained from the Substance Abuse, Mental Health

Services Administration (SAMHSA) Center for Substance Abuse Prevention (CSAP). Funds comprise of

the stipulated 20% of the Substance Abuse Prevention & Treatment Block Grant set aside for

prevention services and competitive grants. A smaller portion of funds comes from the State’s

General and Drug Asset Forfeiture Funds. Allocation of these funds is based on funding mandates,

priority setting reports, State Epidemiological/Outcomes Workgroup and other advisory groups’

recommendations, and is made through competitive requests for proposals (RFPs). The allocation

approach used in the CT ensures that all funded policies, practices, and programs support community-

level ATOD consumption and consequences.

PREVENTION RESOURCE ALLOCATION SFY 2015

Funding Streams Amount Programs Supported

SAMHSA Center for Mental

Health Services $400,000 Connecticut Suicide Prevention Initiative

SAMHSA Center for Substance

Abuse Prevention $1,658188 Partnerships for Success 2015

SAMHSA Center for Mental

Health Services 1,000,000 Now is the Time – Healthy Transitions

State Drug Assets Forfeiture

Revolving Account $246,350 Regional Action Councils

State Pretrial Alcohol Education

Services $499,996 Regional Action Councils

Federal Substance Abuse

Prevention & Treatment Block

Grant

$4,772,719

Connecticut SPF Coalitions Initiative, Local Prevention Councils,

CT Clearinghouse, Regional Action Councils, Statewide

Resource Links, Tobacco Prevention & Enforcement Program,

Courage to Speak Foundation.

Social Services Block Grant $17,272 CT Clearinghouse

Federal Food & Drug

Administration $1,150,000 FDA Tobacco Prevention and Enforcement Program

State Tobacco & Health Trust Fund $287,000 Urban Tobacco Inspection Program

Other State Funds $1,664,496 Regional Action Councils, Governor’s Prevention Partnership,

CT Clearinghouse, Tobacco Prevention & Enforcement Program

Total Prevention Funding $11,696,021



DATA COLLECTION

Interagency Data Workgroup

Standing legislation requires DMHAS to establish uniform policies and procedures for collecting,

standardizing, managing and evaluating data related to substance use, abuse and addiction

programs administered by state agencies, state-funded community-based programs and the Judicial

Branch. The Interagency Operational Data Collection Workgroup was created in response to this

legislation. At the core of this legislation is the desire to have a comprehensive understanding of those

individuals receiving substance abuse education, prevention, intervention and treatment services, as

they move through an array of state-sponsored services. This initiative is meant to create a fully

integrated substance abuse services data system. A system which can not only provide client

demographic data across state agencies, and reveal trends in those receiving services, but also

indicate the full breadth of whether the services resulted in positive client outcomes, and determine

the cost benefit to the state. Having this policy-relevant and program development information at

hand will lead to better approaches to preventing, delaying or treating substance use or abuse.

There are several agencies serving on this workgroup that have resources in prevention. They include

Departments of Children and Families, Motor Vehicles, Transportation, Social Services, Education, the

Judicial Branch, and the Office of Policy and Management as well as DMHAS’ prevention staff.

The State Epidemiological Outcomes Workgroup

The State Epidemiological Outcomes Workgroup (SEOW) is charged with compiling indicators of

substance abuse and related consequences, tracking data trends over time, and promoting the use of

data to continually focus and strengthen ATOD prevention efforts statewide. In addition to DMHAS, it

comprises representatives from the Departments of Children and Families, Consumer Protection Liquor

Control Unit, Corrections, Education, Motor Vehicles, Public Health, Public Safety, Social Services, and

Transportation; the Judicial Branch Court Support Services; Multicultural Leadership Institute; Office of

Policy and Management, and researchers from the University of Connecticut Health Center. It meets

quarterly to explore new sources of prevention and treatment need indicator data.

Prevention Data Infrastructure (PDI)

In response to the SAPT Block Grant requirement to collect and report National Outcome Measures

(NOMS) for prevention, which comprise eight domains (abstinence, employment/ education, crime and

criminal justice, stability in housing, access/capacity, retention, social connectedness, perception of

care cost effectiveness, and use of evidence-based practices), DMHAS has enhanced its Prevention

Data Infrastructure. With technical assistance from SAMHSA, all States will:

Standardize operational definitions and outcome measures, and link records to support pre-

and post-service comparisons.

Develop benchmarking strategies to determine acceptable levels of outcomes.

Produce routine management reports to direct technical assistance and science-to-services

program to implement interventions designed to result in improved outcomes.

Achieve full State reporting by the end of fiscal year (FY) 2007. In the interim, each year

more States will report with standard definitions until all States are on board.



The PDI uses the following data management systems for reporting on prevention program activities:

CT IMPACT – collecting process and qualitative data on program monitoring and provider

reports for Substance Abuse Prevention and Treatment Block Grant reporting

Tobacco Compliance System – collecting State tobacco compliance inspection data and field

merchant education activities for the Annual Synar Report

Tobacco Inspection Management System – collecting federal Food & Drug Administration

(FDA) tobacco compliance inspection data and advertising & labeling for the Annual Synar

Report FDA contract reporting

Tobacco Sales: Do the Right Thing – collecting retailer training data for reporting to the

Department of Revenue Services and the Annual Synar Report


Interagency Coordination

INTERAGENCY COORDINATION INTRODUCTION TO INTERAGENCY COORDINATION

INTERAGENCY BOARDS, COMMITTEES, COALITIONS, COLLABORATIVE, PARTNERSHIPS AND

WORKGROUPS

INTERAGENCY COORDINATION INTRODUCTION

There is a growing understanding in Connecticut of the importance of a coordinated approach to

both substance abuse prevention service delivery and fiscal policy. Government leaders have

recognized the limited capacity that one agency has on its own in reducing substance abuse and have

worked hard to foster relationships that could support and enhance the state’s substance abuse

prevention system. The chart below shows the participants in the state’s efforts to implement a plan to

improve cost-efficiency, interagency coordination, and the effectiveness of the prevention and

intervention system. The interagency committees described on the following pages are those in which

staff from the DMHAS Prevention Unit is involved.



NATIONAL PREVENTION NETWORK

Partners:

Prevention Leaders from the Single State Authorities for Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse representing

each of the 50 states, the District of Columbia and 8 U.S. Territories

Purpose:

As a component of the National Association of State Alcohol and Drug Abuse Directors (NASADAD)

the National Prevention Network provides culturally appropriate guidance and leadership to

national, state and local prevention efforts to reduce the incidence and prevalence of alcohol,

tobacco and other drug problems.

ACADEMIC PARTNERSHIP

Partners:

University of Connecticut School of Social Work, University of Connecticut Health Center, The

Consultation Center at Yale University

Purpose:

This partnership was created to provide consultation and evaluation support to several federally

funded prevention initiatives: the Connecticut Youth Suicide Prevention Initiative, Governor’s

Prevention Initiative for Connecticut State Universities, and Tobacco Prevention & Enforcement

Program, Interagency Boards, Committees, Coalitions, Collaborative, Partnerships and Workgroups.

CONNECTICUT ALCOHOL & DRUG POLICY COUNCIL

Partners:

Office of Policy and Management Department of Education Department of Children and Families Department of Transportation Department of Social Services Department of Public Health Judicial Branch Department of Corrections Department of Public Safety Department of Motor Vehicles Department of Consumer Protection Department of Insurance Board of Parole Office of the Chief Public Defender Legislators Chief State’s Attorney UCONN Health Center Department of Higher Education Private Sector Representatives

Purpose:

The Connecticut Alcohol and Drug Policy Council was created by legislation charging it with

examining and improving the statewide substance abuse system and developing a plan and action

strategies to reduce the harmful effects of this complex and challenging problem.



CONNECTICUT INHALANT PREVENTION TASK FORCE

Partners:

Youth Service Agencies Police Departments Regional Substance Abuse Action Councils Connecticut Poison Control Center Governor’s Prevention Partnership State Agencies & Other Community Organizations

Purpose:

The Taskforce has two primary goals: 1) Increase awareness of inhalant abuse statewide and 2)

Research, recommend and implement effective prevention strategies.

These goals will be carried out through activities that include: the collection of data on inhalant use,

related injuries, and deaths, training of trainers for the purpose of expanding the knowledge base in

Connecticut, and dissemination of print materials to parents, educators, and youth serving agencies.

CONNECTICUT PRESCRIPTION DRUG ABUSE TASK FORCE

Partners:

Youth Service Agencies Police Departments State Agencies Connecticut Poison Control Center Governor’s Prevention Partnership Connecticut Clearinghouse Regional Substance Abuse Action Councils Other Community Organizations

Purpose:

The Taskforce has two primary goals: 1) Increase awareness of prescription drug abuse statewide

and 2) Research, recommend and implement effective prevention strategies.

DMHAS POLICE PARTNERSHIP PROGRAM

Partners:

Municipal Police Agencies Connecticut State Police

Purpose:

This program is a partnership between Connecticut police agencies and DMHAS to facilitate the

enforcement of criminal laws that prohibit the sell of tobacco products to individuals less than 18

years of age. DMHAS investigators work in concert with law enforcement and infractions are issued

to non-compliant vendors, merchant education materials are distributed, and press releases are

publicized. There are approximates 100 Connecticut cities and towns that have Memorandum of

Agreement with DMHAS. The Connecticut State Police work with DMHAS in town that do not have

municipal police department.



INTERAGENCY DATA SHARING INITIATIVE

Partners:

Office of Policy and Management Department of Education Department of Children and Families Department of Social Services Department of Transportation Department of Public Health Department of Motor Vehicles Judicial Branch

Purpose:

This workgroup was created in response to legislation requiring DMHAS to establish uniform policies

and procedures across the state for collecting, standardizing, managing, and evaluating data. Data

will include: 1) the use of prevention, education, treatment and criminal justice services related to

substance use, abuse and addiction; 2) client demographics and substance use, abuse and addiction

information; and 3) the quality and cost effectiveness of substance use, abuse and addiction services.

CONNECTICUT SUICIDE ADVISORY BOARD

Partners:

Jordan Matthew Porco Memorial Foundation True Colors United Way of CT& National CT State University System Wellness & Recovery & National CT National Guard Suicide Prevention Lifeline Crisis Center Office of the Child Advocate Children and Families CT Community College System Veterans Administration CT University of CT Health Center Healthcare System-Suicide Prevention Program Multicultural Leadership Institute University of CT School of Social Work Wheeler Clinic Center for Prevention Veterans Affairs Graduate students, and parents

Purpose:

The Connecticut Suicide Advisory Board (CTSAB) was established January 2012 through the merger

of the CT Youth Suicide Advisory Board and the Interagency Suicide Prevention Network to create

one state-level Suicide Advisory Board to address suicide across the lifespan. The 1989 legislation

requires the existence of an advisory body to inform the Commissioner of DCF on strategies for the

coordination of youth suicide prevention throughout Connecticut. The CTSAB is co-chaired by the CT

Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services and the Department of Children and Families,

and is a diverse, collaborative network of over 250 people and 100 agencies representing

advocates, educators, leaders, and survivors concerned with advancing and sustaining efforts to

eliminate suicide across the life span. The CTSAB developed the State of CT Suicide Prevention Plan

2020 (PLAN 2020) that establishes five goals and 22 objectives for the state to initiate state

prevention activities, and is aligned with the National Strategy for Suicide Prevention and Healthy

People 2020. PLAN 2020 is designed to be accessible to everyone to be utilized as a working

template to guide their efforts small and large to prevent suicide attempts and deaths and ultimately

save lives in Connecticut.



JUVENILE JUSTICE ADVISORY COMMITTEE – SUBCOMMITTEE ON COMBATING UNDERAGE DRINKING

Partners:

Office of Policy and Management Local Law Enforcement Agencies Department of Children and Families Court Support Services Division Judicial Branch Department of Transportation Department of

Public Safety Purpose:

The purpose of the Juvenile Justice Advisory Committee (JJAC) is to prevent delinquency and improve

Connecticut's juvenile justice system. It was established in accordance with the Juvenile Justice and

Delinquency Prevention Act (JJDPA) of 1974 as amended, and it is responsible for overseeing the

distribution and use of federal juvenile justice funds to support youth development programs and

improvements to Connecticut's juvenile justice system.

CONNECTICUT POVERTY AND PREVENTION COUNCIL

Partners:

Governor’s Office of Policy and Management Department of Children and Families State Department of Education Department of Public Health Judicial Branch-Court Support Services Division Department of Mental Retardation

Purpose:

The SPPC was created in 2001 through prevention legislation (PA 01-121) and is charged with

evaluating and promoting prevention work in the state of CT. SPPC goals are to: increase the

awareness of the value of prevention; strengthen state and local networks’ involvement in prevention;

improve data collection on prevention programs to enhance system measurement capabilities; and

share & implement best practices through effective prevention programs.

TOBACCO MERCHANT & COMMUNITY EDUCATION STEERING COMMITTEE

Partners:

Wheeler Clinic's Connecticut Clearinghouse State Agencies New England Convenience Store Association Regional Action Councils Convenience Stores and Large Chain Stores Ledge Light Health District Independent Connecticut Petroleum Association J. Polep Distribution Services

Purpose:

A key component of a statewide tobacco prevention community services campaign, to guide and

inform the campaign process resulting in the most effective campaign materials and activities, leading

to reductions in sales of tobacco products to youth under 18 years of age



CONNECTICUT CANCER PARTNERSHIP – PREVENTION SUBCOMMITTEE

Partners:

Over 200 groups and individuals that are key stakeholders in cancer prevention and control in

Connecticut

Purpose:

To coordinate a statewide comprehensive approach to cancer prevention and control, through the

development, implementation, and evaluation of a statewide Comprehensive Cancer Control Plan.

MOBILIZE AGAINST TOBACCO FOR CONNECTICUT’S HEALTH (MATCH COALITION INC.)

Partners:

American Cancer Society American Lung Association American Heart Association Connecticut Association of Directors of Health American Academy of Pediatrics State Agencies Parents and Youth Non-profit organizations/agencies

Purpose:

MATCH advocates for resources for public health policies to reduce the use of tobacco among

children and adults, and collaborates with programs furthering those goals.

CT STRONG STATE LEVEL; TRANSITION TEAM

Partners:

DMHAS FAVOR Family Advocacy Organization Department of Public Health Department of Children Families Bureau of Rehab Services (BRS) Southwest Regional Mental Health Board Judicial Court Support Services Division (CSSD) Office of the Health Care Advocate (OHCA) Department of Social Services State Department of Education Department of Labor Office of the Child Advocate Department of Corrections (DOC) Advanced Behavioral Health Department of Higher Education Join, Be, Rise

Purpose:

Is to review progress on state and local level initiatives to improve seamless transition for youth ages

16 to 25.



SPE/PFS ADVISORY COUNCIL

Partners:

DMHAS Department of Consumer Protection Department of Public Health Department of Children Families Department of Transportation Veterans Affairs Judicial Court Support Services Division Board of Pardons & Parole Department of Social Services State Department of Education Office of Policy & Management UConn Health Center Department of Corrections Department of Emergency Services & Public

Protection

Purpose:

To improve the statewide alcohol, tobacco and other drug (ATOD) prevention infrastructure and in

turn help families and communities to prevent or delay the use of alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs.

Also to provide advice and guidance on the implementation of the PFS 2015 which will expand the

use of the Strategic Prevention Framework (SPF) to urban communities that demonstrate a high need

for prevention programs that address a reduction in: 1) alcohol use in youth age 12 to 20 or 2)

prescription drug misuse or abuse among persons age 12 to 25.

AMERICAN FOUNDATION FOR SUICIDE PREVENTION –NORTHERN CT CHAPTER

Partners:

Survivors of suicide, individuals with mental disorders and their families, mental health professionals,

community and business leaders, state agencies, hospitals

Purpose:

In CT there are two chapters of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. These Chapters are

two of 75 local chapters nationwide. Chapter volunteers deliver innovative prevention programs to

schools and businesses, reach out to survivors of suicide loss, organize fundraising events, and act as a

go-to resource for their entire community. They are at the forefront of increasing the public’s

awareness of suicide as a public health issue that is preventable and are able to advocate for policy

change. Out of the Darkness Walks hosted in communities statewide serve as the primary fundraising

effort, and 50% of funds raised go to the chapter and support CT suicide prevention.

SCHOOL BASED HEALTH CENTERS ADVISORY COMMITTEE

Partners

Family Advocate or Parent Department of Public Health (FLIS) School Nurse, Hartford Public Schools State Department of Education Cornell Scott Hill Health Center Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services Integrated Health Services, Inc. Department of Social Services Branford Public Schools Department of Children and Families SBHC not receiving state funds Connecticut Association of School Based Health Centers American Academy of Pediatrics Quinnipiac Valley Health District Griffin Hospital Commission on Children



Purpose:

The School Based Health Centers Advisory Committee is a legislatively mandated committee. Its

purpose is to advise the Commissioner of Public Health on matters relating to (1) statutory and

regulatory changes to improve health care through access to school-based health centers, and (2)

minimum standards for the provision of services in school-based health centers to ensure that high

quality health care services are provided in school-based health centers.


Quality Assurance, Monitoring, and Workforce Development

QUALITY ASSURANCE, MONITORING, AND WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT SYSTEM OVERSIGHT AND PROGRAM REPORTING

MONITORING, CORRECTIVE ACTION AND TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE

STAFF CREDENTIALING AND OPERATING STANDARDS

WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT

CONNECTICUT INTERMEDIATE OUTCOMES

RESEARCH-BASED BEST PRACTICE STRATEGIES, PRACTICES AND PROGRAMS

SYSTEM OVERSIGHT AND PROGRAM REPORTING

Each DMHAS Prevention provider is required to submit a quarterly report that provides information

on program activities and progress in addition to reports on the numbers of populations served by

strategies. These reports provide information that assists DMHAS in assessing program effectiveness,

planning, program development, resource allocation and ensuring access to services.

MONITORING, CORRECTIVE ACTION AND TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE

Prevention staffs in conjunction with DMHAS Regional Teams visit all funded prevention programs

annually to review compliance with DMHAS operating standards, contract language and program

mandates. Major problems found during monitoring visits are brought to the provider’s attention and

programs are given the opportunity to implement corrective action. Prevention staffs provide technical

assistance. Technical assistance is also available through the statewide service delivery agents or

Resource Links. The purpose of the site visit is to ensure compliance with Prevention Standards, DMHAS

contract and federal requirements enhance accountability and ensure that prevention programs are

implemented consistently throughout the state. Site visits include an administrative review

(administration), a program review (set up & operation), and records/document review. Our

feedback loop to the Agency includes an entrance conference to explain focus of visit, an exit

conference to discuss findings, a written report with recommendations or corrective action plan, and

additional feedback to agencies through management meetings and independent evaluations. Our

follow up entails Prevention staff monitoring for completeness of corrective action plan and overall

progress.

STAFF CREDENTIALING AND OPERATING STANDARDS

DMHAS, in conjunction with Connecticut prevention provider agencies and organizations, developed

the Cultivating Programs That Work: Operating Standards for Prevention and Health Promotion

Programs for prevention programs funded by DMHAS. The standards, guidelines, and supporting

documents link state-of-the-art prevention theory to effective, comprehensive, and accountable



prevention practice and implementation of the standards should result in positive outcomes for

programs, staff and participants.

The purpose of these standards is to provide assurances to the public that alcohol and drug abuse

prevention and early intervention programs are regulated under a set of minimum standards

established by DMHAS. These standards establish a minimum level of program operation intended to

reflect quality substance abuse prevention programs. The operating standards articulate a service

philosophy that promotes the concept of health promotion as a means of building on the strengths and

positive resources of individuals, families, schools, and communities throughout the State of Connecticut

to prevent the use, misuse, or abuse of legal or illegal substances. To support prevention staff training

and certification, the Prevention Training Collaborative provides a wide range of prevention training

across the state. There are three levels of prevention certification for paraprofessionals, and

volunteers and prevention program staffs with and without four-year degrees.

WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT

Towards the prevention goal of promoting the overall health and wellness of individuals within

communities through effective practices, the Prevention Unit facilitates the provision of a broad

spectrum of workforce development and capacity building trainings to social service agencies,

community members, prevention professionals and volunteers.

Training courses offered by the Prevention Unit are consistent with the SAPT Block Grant, which

requires that continuing education be provided for employees who deliver prevention services to

individuals and communities. DMHAS is committed to developing its workforce at the state, regional

and local levels including grant funded programs.

Utilizing the Training and Technical Assistance Service Center, (TTASC), the DMHAS Prevention unit will

increase prevention workforce competencies and improve access by prevention workers to the most

relevant, responsive, and culturally appropriate prevention education and training resources by

utilizing the Strategic Prevention Framework (SPF) process to:

Maximize and target training and technical assistance resources by coordinating efforts across

multiple sectors to recruit, retain, educate and train the prevention workforce

Increase the use of evidence-based programs and strategies that address the national

outcome measures (NOMs) and lead to measureable outcomes, and

Increase the reach of prevention training through the application of technology.

The TTASC will conduct a training, technical assistance and staff development Needs Assessment of

the Prevention Workforce. A Training and Technical Assistance Workgroup will advise in the

development and implementation of the Needs Assessment and the Workforce Development and

Training Plan. The workgroup will consist of representatives from Prevention service providers, the

DMHAS Prevention and Health Promotion Unit and other associated stakeholders. A comprehensive

Workforce Development and Training Plan will be created and training and technical assistance

opportunities will be created, publicized and implemented.



Intensive cutting edge training are provided statewide by leaders, practitioners and experts in the

field including the Northeast Center for the Application of Prevention Technologies (NECAPT).

Trainings cover all core areas of prevention as required by the International Certification and

Reciprocity Consortium (ICRC) for alcohol and other drug abuse prevention certification and focus on

substance abuse, mental health and other related problems.

DMHAS employees and providers alike have opportunities to develop professionally through

participation in annual national prevention conferences and regional prevention schools.

Another source of training is the New England School of Addiction Studies. The school was formed in

1970 to provide training opportunities in support of substance abuse service system development

and workforce development across New England. Each year the NEIAS offers an intensive weeklong

experience for participants to further their knowledge, skills and experience in the field of substance

abuse prevention. The school has a comprehensive curriculum of best practice courses for all skill

levels, taught by regional and national experts.

In addition to the ongoing statewide prevention workforce development, the Director of Prevention at

DMHAS serve as members of the National Prevention Network’s (NPN) Workforce Development

Committee. In this capacity, the leadership at DMHAS has worked with CSAP staff and other state

NPNs in the development of a framework that aims to enable NPN members, SSA/state staff to

develop skills necessary for planned change. Core components and priorities of the NPN/CSAP have

served as a blueprint for workforce development within Connecticut’s SSA to include: organization

and infrastructure development, substance abuse prevention data systems/ NOMS, program

standards, the SPF five steps, planning and managing for outcomes, leadership and resource

development, and other core competencies in supervision, fellowship/mentoring, and cultural

competence.

CONNECTICUT INTERMEDIATE OUTCOMES

The vision for Connecticut is the quantifiable reduction of substance use and promotion of mental

health through a statewide prevention system that allows its citizens to live healthy, productive and

rewarding lives. An Intermediate Outcomes document was developed by the State Agency

Workgroup for use by the providers to drive the goals and objectives of their prevention programs.

Intermediate outcomes are short-term indicators to measure progress toward a long-term goal. These

outcomes are based on research about what factors increase or decrease the likelihood of substance

use and are referred to as risk or protective factors. To take it one step further, state agency

prevention partners are in the process of developing an outcome monitoring system for mental health,

violence and substance abuse across state agencies.

RESEARCH-BASED BEST PRACTICE STRATEGIES, PRACTICES AND PROGRAMS

Over the past few years there has been increased emphasis in the field of prevention to implement

programs that have been evaluated and proven effective. Congress wants to demonstrate to

taxpayers that the money going into prevention is addressing societal concerns by funding programs



that are known to show positive results. Therefore all federal agencies that currently fund prevention

efforts have included a requirement that programs must be researched and shown to produce positive

outcomes.

As a result, DMHAS has been involved with a variety of science-based initiatives over the past years

that have been evaluated by our academic partners at the University of Connecticut (UConn) Health

Center Department of Community Medicine, UConn Center for Public Health and Health Policy-

Institute for Public Health Research, UConn School of Social Work, and Yale University:

1999-2003 CSAP State Incentive Grant: Governor’s Prevention Initiative for Youth

1999-2003 CSAP Family Strengthening Program Series

2000-2003 CMHS Partnership Resource Infrastructure- Violence Prevention Initiative

2001-2005 CSAP Achievement Through Mentoring

2002-2006 CSAP Ecstasy and Other Club Drug Prevention Intervention

2004-2008 CSAP State Incentive Grant Enhancement Initiative: Governor’s Prevention Initiative for

Connecticut State Universities

2004-2010 CSAP Strategic Prevention Framework State Incentive Grant

2006-2010 CMHS CT Youth Suicide Prevention Initiative

2009-2014 CSAP Underage Drinking/Partnerships for Success

2009-2015 CSAP Partnership for Success

2010-2012 DOE Grants for Coalitions

2011-2012 CSAP Strategic Prevention Enhancement Grant

2011-2014 HHS/FDA Tobacco Compliance Initiative

2011-2015 CMHS CT Campus Suicide Prevention Initiative

i National Research Council and Institute of Medicine. (2009). Preventing mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders among young people: Progress and possibilities (O’Connell, M. E., Boat, T., & Warner, K. E., Eds.) Washington, DC: National Academies Press.

prevention and health promotion division compendium 2020

Documents